Message from a teaching artist on the impact of arts programming for students with Autism at PS 37R

We recently received the following from a teaching artist who has just completed a percussion residency at PS 37 on Staten Island. We wanted to post it here to celebrate their success and demonstrate the importance of the arts in the lives of the children that we serve and their families. Thank you to stakeholders like Jon, school staff like Judy, and to the parents and students who make up the school communities that we are privileged to work with.

“Hi David and Maxine,

I just wanted you to know that our last session at PS 37R went so very well, we had a big turnout and the parents were very happy, the kids were engaged and having fun. Judy, the school liaison, said that some parents were so happy that they cried aftwrwards, saying that they couldn’t believe that their kids were able to stay focused for such a long time!
You will be hearing from Judy, she will send photos from today and has invited us to do a sculpture workshop with teachers and paras on June 9th.
Thanks again for inviting me to do this, it has been an honor and a pleasure!
Best,
Jon Gall
Teaching Artists
Marquis Studios”